Oak in Glen Affric

Oaks support a remarkable number of other species: over 300 different lichens have been found on oak trees, and many insects depend on them. Oaks even produce a second flush of leaves in mid-summer to compensate for the number that have been eaten by then.

You may see peculiar growths called galls on some trees. They can appear as warty freckles on the leaves, or cherry-shaped balls. The tree forms the galls in response to insects laying their eggs, with each different gall being unique to a particular insect.

A very long life

Oaks can live for well over 500 years. There may not be many of them in the Caledonian Forest, but they are important in supporting its rich wildlife.